Chassis number 18039 was constructed by the Alvis Works in 1935 as a 3 Litre show chassis and was used to demonstrate the company s latest engineering developments.

In this form it appeared at the Paris Motor Show in October 1935, displayed without coachwork to place emphasis on its advanced mechanical specification, before making a further appearance the following month at the Scottish Motor Show.

Only after these important factory showings was the chassis released for sale.